How could my medical or family history affect my chances of becoming pregnant, staying pregnant, or conceiving a baby?
Some medical conditions can make it harder to conceive a baby or to stay pregnant.
If more than one person in your family has a certain medical condition, it could mean you’re at higher risk of developing that condition.
Talk with your health care provider about your medical history. Knowing if you might be at risk can help your health care provider connect you with the right services. This includes talking about any inherited or genetic conditions in your family.
Some medical conditions affect the menstrual cycle and the ability to release an egg (ovulate). Some conditions increase the risk of miscarriage.
Certain medical conditions could affect sperm and may reduce the chance of conceiving a baby.
The following types of injuries could affect the ability to conceive a baby:
- Injury to the sperm ducts (this prevents sperm from exiting the penis)
- Injury to the testicles
- Head injury – if it affects the hypothalamus (this type of injury can affect your hormones)
Talk with your health care provider if you have concerns about a past injury.